Season six was no different as it marked the exit of season five character Mlilo Hlophe, who was played by Vuyo Biyela. As reported:
...Vuyo took to Instagram to pen a lengthy post in which he bid farewell to his breakout role which has since become an in-demand leading man. As such, he wrote in his caption:
“On the 1st of April 2022 my journey on The River began. Mlilo Hlophe was born and a year later he has left the scene. The love he’s received has been nothing short of amazing. The memories we shared eish! (Indescribable)”
Biyela then affirms that his exit was amicable as he not only thanked production company Tshedza Pictures, but the cast and crew by writing in length:
I’m typing this long ass essay with teary eyes not because I’m sad but because I’m grateful for the opportunity that Tshedza Pictures gave me to showcase my abilities and live this character.
Biyela’s exit has opened room for the telenovela to introduce a new character, which is set to be played by Yizo Yizo alumni actress.
Mmabatho Mogomotsi joins The River
On Monday, 8 May 2023, Tshedza Pictures took to social media to share the trailer for this week’s episodes. As such, it revealed that in light of Mlilo’s passing, the telenovela is set to finally introduced Mlilo and Nkanyiso’s biological mother.
Now it has been confirmed that acclaimed and seasoned actress Mmabatho Mogomotsi is set to play the character. Moreover, it seems that Mmabatho will be part of the world of the story for some time.
More than playing the mother of eldest Hlophe children, it seems that Mmabatho will also play Thumbeza’s love interest. This is as Thumbeza will find comfort in her as they both mourn the passing of their son. Moreso given that Brenda Mlhongo’s character has also cheated in the past.
And they keep on adding new people . Just like Gomora but apparently it’s ending in sept or something like that . They all need to close shop coz they’re boring
